Staff Report / February 15, 2026
Albany NY – New York State is rolling out one of the most significant changes in years to its driver violation point system, a move officials say is designed to more quickly flag dangerous drivers and improve road safety across the state. The new rules take effect February 16, 2026 and will reshape how traffic violations are tracked and enforced.
Longer Look-Back and Lower Suspension Threshold
Under the revamped system, points for traffic violations will remain on a driver’s record for 24 months, up from the previous 18-month period. At the same time, a review for potential license suspension can begin at 10 points in that window — one point fewer than the old threshold of 11.
The extended look-back period means that violations previously spaced far enough apart to “fall off” may now overlap, making it easier for drivers to approach critical point totals. DMV officials say this change will help identify repeat offenders earlier, while critics argue it could catch more casual law-abiding drivers in the net.
Higher Point Values for Serious and Common Violations
The revamped point chart more heavily penalizes both severe and everyday violations — and, in some cases, assigns points where none existed before.
Among the key adjustments:
- Alcohol- or drug-related convictions and aggravated unlicensed operation will now carry 11 points, automatically triggering a suspension review.
- Passing a stopped school bus and speeding in work or construction zones now carry 8 points.
- Leaving the scene of a personal injury crash and failure to exercise due care will bring higher point totals than before.
Officials say these changes reflect a focus on high-risk behavior that historically contributes to serious collisions, especially those involving pedestrians and construction workers.
New Pointable Violations
Some violations that previously drew fines but no point penalties will now count toward a driver’s total. These include:
- Illegal U-turns
- Obstructing traffic
- Failure to move over for emergency vehicles
- Equipment issues such as broken lights
This expansion means even minor infractions can cumulatively affect a driver’s standing more quickly than before.
Impact on Insurance and Mandatory Fees
Accumulating points doesn’t just risk a suspension — it can also lead to higher auto insurance premiums and mandatory DMV fees for drivers with multiple violations. Legal experts have warned that the steeper point assignments may also prompt more motorists to contest tickets in court rather than plead guilty, as the consequences of conviction have grown more severe.
A Safety-Driven Policy
State officials and highway safety advocates emphasize that the overhaul is intended to keep unsafe drivers off the roads and reduce crash rates statewide. “Our job is to make sure that New York’s roads are safe for everyone,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State DMV. “If someone chooses to be reckless and unsafe, they do not deserve to be behind the wheel.”
However, some drivers and advocates voice concern that the broader scope and higher point values could disproportionately affect everyday commuters and those in rural areas who rely on driving for work and daily tasks.
What Drivers Should Know
With the overhaul now in effect, drivers are encouraged to review the new point assignments and consider defensive driving courses that can help offset point totals. Staying informed about how ordinary slips — such as minor speeding or a broken headlight — now contribute to longer-term records could help motorists avoid unintended penalties and preserve their licenses.
